Reviews

Raybearer by Jordan Ifueko

bluejaybooks's review

Enjoyed this one. Though I have to admit that it's starting to get noticeable when I read YA books that I'm no longer part of the intended audience. But that's my problem, not this book's.

A whimsical fantasy adventure with a determined heroine. Definitely a must read for YA fantasy lovers.

thebooktender's review against another edition

adventurous emotional inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.75

thebookaholic's review

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.25

rachel86's review against another edition

adventurous hopeful medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

shoshin's review against another edition

adventurous emotional hopeful fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

diamondbg's review

4.0

This book was written beautifully but there was so much information given throughout that it was confusing at times to keep up and understand what was happening. Besides that I enjoyed the book very much.

jenaucyde's review against another edition

5.0

I loved everything about this story. A lot of main characters come across as a little holier-than-thou, which is fine because we often love them despite (and sometimes because of) this! Tarisai, however, just feels genuinely good, rather than goody-goody.

I loved the magic system, the lore and the beautiful imagery. The characters al had flaws and strengths which brought them more to life than many fantasy books which rely on overly perfect characters, for whom flaws are not really flaws at all but rather, quirks- Tarisai is easily led for much of her life, naive and too trusting. She is also kind, fiercely loyal, and dedicated. Dayo is a little spoiled to begin with, is very accepting of his treatment by his elders and does not much question their decisions or their actions. He is also loving, a little silly, and fair (or at least tries to be). There are many other qualities both good and bad for each of the characters, and all are an enjoyable read.

I liked that there was some LGBTQ+ representation as well, as I am LGBTQ+ myself, I appreciate that there were a few diverse sexual orientations to read about, although they were not explored much, but it didn’t feel exclusionary- just that it may have been superfluous to the story.

And “Tarisai Ibajo”? Are you kidding me? I sobbed!! This may be my new favourite fictional world.

irismessenger_'s review against another edition

2.0

Not my favorite... I'll forego the harsh review for a video to be filmed soon

akajam's review against another edition

adventurous dark emotional funny hopeful reflective medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.75

An incredible world with unique magic. I fell in love with the characters and wanted to meet them!

powderysweetgirly's review

4.0

enjoyed this book a lot! It was captivating and well written! Jordan did such a brilliant job at creating such vibrant atmospheres and you just get sucked into the story. The subtle amount of representation that is in the book is amazing and the whole plotline was very entertaining! This book COULD HAVE been a 5-star read, but I felt like the pacing wasn't very even (it wasn't terrible, but it did throw off the flow of the book). Still a brilliant book with amazing characters and atmosphere!